Governor Rell Announces National Search for New Commissioner of Environmental Protection

Deputy Commissioner Amey Marrella Named

Acting Commissioner While Search Is Conducted

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she is launching a national search for a new Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner to replace Commissioner Gina McCarthy, who has moved to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to serve as Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation programs. The Governor also announced that she is appointing Deputy Commissioner Amey Marrella to head the agency during the interim. Marrella will hold the title of Acting Commissioner.

            “Gina McCarthy was a tremendous leader who brought a new energy and vision to the DEP and I appreciate her outstanding service to this state,” Governor Rell said. “We are fortunate to have in Amey Marrella a person with the knowledge and skills to lead this important agency while we search for a permanent successor. Amey has experience in federal, state and local government and for the past three years has served as Deputy Commissioner with responsibility for critical programs that protect our air, water and lands.”

            Marrella was named Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Quality at DEP by Governor Rell in April 2006, overseeing all air, waste and water pollution programs. Marrella has focused much of her attention on strengthening DEP’s enforcement capabilities and improving the process for reviewing and acting on permit applications. She has also worked to improve services for municipal officials, who are major constituents of the agency.

            Marrella serves on a variety of state and interstate boards on behalf of DEP, including the Transportation Strategy Board (TSB) and the Interstate Ozone Transport Commission. Prior to joining DEP, Marrella served for five years as the First Selectman of the Town of Woodbridge. Before seeking elected office she served as an Attorney Advisor for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, helping to develop regulations to implement the 1990 Clean Air Act.

            “Deputy Commissioner Marrella has been a great asset to the DEP and her experience on the municipal level of government has enhanced the agency’s ties with towns and cities throughout the state,” Governor Rell said.

            Marrella has also served as an adjunct professor at Quinnipiac University School of Law, teaching a survey course on environmental statutes. Deputy Commissioner Marrella will not be precluded from applying for appointment as the permanent Commissioner of the DEP.